Foundation raises $1.4 million for need-based scholarships

Sandra and Gov. Nathan Deal presented former University System of Georgia Chancellor Hank Huckaby  with an award for his contributions to higher education while Huckaby's wife  Amy, and Regent Philip Wilheit looked on.

Sandra and Gov. Nathan Deal presented former University System of Georgia Chancellor Hank Huckaby with an award for his contributions to higher education while Huckaby's wife Amy, and Regent Philip Wilheit looked on.

The University System of Georgia Foundation raised $1.43 million for need-based scholarships, 10 percent more than last year.

The money will be used to promote, support and provide scholarships at the system’s 28 institutions.

This year’s gala, held March 31, recognized faculty and alumni for their support of higher education in Georgia. The foundation bestowed the Regent Elridge McMillian Lifetime Achievement Award - its highest honor - to its former chancellor, Hank Huckaby. Governor Nathan Deal presented the award.

Huckaby became the system's chancellor in 2011 and retired in December 2016. He was the first in-state chancellor hired by the Board of Regents in more than two decades. While chancellor, he oversaw the mergers of a number of state colleges and universities, led the system's efforts in cutting college costs for students and has repeatedly opposed attempts to allow guns on college campuses.

Huckaby has also been honored by the Foundation of Wesley Woods, the Zell Miller Institute and Georgia Trend since retiring. Georgia's House of Representatives even passed a resolution to congratulate Huckaby on his retirement.